A STUDENT at the University of Warwick, is determined to make a lasting impact on women’s health in Sylhet, Bangladesh, inspired by her eye-opening family trip to the region.
During a visit to Sylhet in 2019, Najeyah Ahmed was struck by the stark absence of healthcare facilities, particularly for young mothers.
Witnessing pregnant girls struggling with limited access to formal education and healthcare, she resolved to address these issues by spearheading the construction of a women’s health clinic.
“Seeing pregnant girls as young as 11 on that visit to Sylhet was a big culture shock
“With a lack of formal education, or sex education, their only option is often just to get married and have children.”
She said the dire circumstances often compel young mothers to give birth at home, by local villagers with minimal hygiene standards, putting their health at risk of infection and complications.
Najeyah highlighted reports of unnecessary ’emergency caesareans’ imposed on these women, making their money problems and health worries worse.
Determined to effect change, Najeyah plans to return to Sylhet this summer for a two-month period, starting an educational program aimed at promoting the use of sanitary products and empowering women with informed choices about childbirth.
The envisioned program will evolve into free classes at a permanent health clinic, with formal training for local midwives.
Leveraging her network and resources, Najeyah aims to organise fundraising events and engage Warwick Medical School students in clinical practice, encouraging their participation in volunteer-led health education programmes.
